In light of the one-year anniversary of the death of two police officers in Santa Cruz, how are you feeling about public safety locally?

Well, I’ve always felt pretty safe in Santa Cruz, and although that was a shattering experience for our community, I still feel pretty safe here. I think we have a great sense of togetherness, really good support services for homeless people and others, and I think I feel no less secure now than I did a year ago.

Dori Schack Santa Cruz | Market Representative

I’m kind of concerned about public safety and drugs all around the town. I work in San Jose for Department of Drug and Alcohol Services with Department of Corrections and it’s getting scarier. There’s not enough being done and people aren’t going outside their doors in Santa Cruz because of all the crime going on down here.

Peggy O’Hara Scotts Valley | MFT

It seems all right except we still have a big homeless drug problem that isn’t being solved.

Jim Emdy Santa Cruz | Librarian

I’m feeling pretty good. I know there’s a bit of crime around but I guess if I feel it’s my time to go, it’s my time to go. It’s kind of the way I view life.

Nicholas West Santa Cruz | Counselor

These types of things happen now and then. It doesn’t mean we’re less or more safe, it’s just going to happen again sometime. We don’t have to freak out. Nothing’s really changed.

Matthew is a California native and has lived in Santa Cruz for 34 years. A sculptor, photographer, avid biker andÂ professionalÂ disc golfer, he has played tournaments in more than ten states and is the winner of the 2002 New Zealand Championships.Â